Kofi Annan was born in Kumasi, Ghana, on April 8, 1938, to a prominent Fante family. He attended Mfantsipim School from 1954 to 1957, where he developed a strong sense of global responsibility.

In 1958, he pursued economics at the Kumasi College of Science and Technology, later completing his undergraduate studies in the United States. Kofi Annan furthered his education in Geneva, earning a degree in International Relations in 1962. 

Annan began his career at the World Health Organisation in 1962, marking the start of his lifelong commitment to international diplomacy.

Over the years, he held various positions within the UN, including roles in personnel management and administrative services.

Notably, Kofi Annan served as Deputy to the Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations from 1992, playing a vital role in conflict resolution efforts.

In 1996, Kofi Annan emerged as the leading candidate for the position of UN Secretary-General after Boutros Boutros-Ghali's term faced opposition.

Despite initial challenges, Kofi Annan was recommended by the Security Council and confirmed by the General Assembly, assuming office on January 1, 1997.

Annan's tenure as Secretary-General was marked by significant reforms aimed at enhancing the effectiveness and transparency of the UN.

He prioritised global health issues, particularly the fight against HIV/AIDS, and launched initiatives like the UN Global Compact to promote sustainable development.

In 2001, Annan and the UN were jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for their efforts in advancing peace and security worldwide.

This recognition underscored Annan's commitment to diplomacy and conflict resolution during his first term as Secretary-General.

Kofi Annan secured a second term as Secretary-General in 2001, focusing on furthering UN reforms and addressing emerging global challenges.

Throughout his tenure, he advocated for human rights, urging for the expansion of the Security Council and the strengthening of peacekeeping operations.

After stepping down as Secretary-General in 2006, he founded the Kofi Annan Foundation to address international development issues.

He remained active in diplomatic efforts, serving as a Special Representative for various crises, including the conflict in Syria and the Rohingya crisis.

Annan's post-UN work focused on promoting global governance and conflict resolution through mediation and advocacy.

He continued to champion peace and security, engaging in private diplomacy and providing counsel to resolve conflicts in several countries.

On May 31, 2019, the United Nations Postal Administration issued a new stamp commemorating Annan, featuring a portrait designed by artist Martin Mörck, while institutions such as the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre and the Ghana-India Kofi Annan Centre of Excellence in ICT in Accra, as well as the Kofi Annan University of Guinea, are dedicated to his memory.

Kofi Annan passed away on 18 August 2018 in Bern, Switzerland, at the age of 80, and was honoured with a state funeral in Ghana on 13 September, attended by global dignitaries, including UN Secretary-General António Guterres.

His body, returned from Geneva in a solemn ceremony, lay in state before a private burial at the Military Cemetery in Burma Camp, where he was laid to rest with full military honours, including a 17-gun salute.

On May 31, 2019, the United Nations Postal Administration issued a new stamp commemorating Annan, featuring a portrait designed by artist Martin Mörck, while institutions such as the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre and the Ghana-India Kofi Annan Centre of Excellence in ICT in Accra, as well as the Kofi Annan University of Guinea, are dedicated to his memory.